NHL Playoff Race and Fantasy Hockey
As the NHL playoff race heats up, fantasy hockey enthusiasts are also feeling the pressure to finalize their rosters in time for the post-season. With less than two weeks remaining in the regular season, here’s a rundown of key players currently riding strong performances who could enhance your fantasy lineup.
Player Highlights
Roster percentages as of April 3
Artturi Lehkonen, Colorado Avalanche (50% rostered)
After missing 11 games, Lehkonen made a notable return last Thursday, rejoining his regular line alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas. Despite being placed on the second power-play unit, he’s already made an impact, recording three points in four games and registering considerable involvement with five shots over the past two games. With his position secured in the top six, expect Lehkonen to continue contributing positively.
Mikael Granlund, Anaheim Ducks (41% rostered)
Granlund, an active player on a competitive offensive roster, is an attractive asset for fantasy managers. He’s been on a scoring spree, with seven goals—four of which were power-play markers—over his last four games. With a significant increase in playing time, averaging just under 20 minutes per game and providing solid stats with 17 shots and 55 faceoff wins, Granlund is a versatile option, able to be slotted in at three different positions on Yahoo.
Lawson Crouse, Arizona Coyotes (18% rostered)
Known more for his physicality than for scoring, Crouse is currently in a hot streak, having tallied four goals and two assists, alongside 17 shots and 25 hits in his last eight contests. Positioned with skilled linemates Clayton Keller and Nick Schmaltz, his diverse contributions could be beneficial for your fantasy team, even if he experiences a goal drought in the future.
Alexander Wennberg, San Jose Sharks (10% rostered)
If Wennberg stays on his current trajectory, he’s likely to surpass his career-high of points, with eight points (four goals, four assists) in his last five games. He’s been featured on a power-play unit that includes prospects Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith, and with the Sharks in contention for a playoff spot, it’s surprising that he remains widely available.
Jack Quinn, Buffalo Sabres (10% rostered)
Quinn has already exceeded his previous scoring highs with a recent hat trick and elevated production after moving up to the Sabres’ lead power play. He’s amassed four power-play points in the last five games—an indication of his growing offensive role. His overall engagement in games should warrant greater attention in fantasy leagues.
Matthew Coronato, Calgary Flames (7% rostered)
The Flames’ roster shake-up didn’t deter Coronato, who has thrived following their recent acquisitions. With a total of nine points in nine games, including three goals and six assists, his role only stands to grow as he becomes central to Calgary’s future plans. He represents a smart pick as an emerging scorer, though his +/- rating may fluctuate.
Porter Martone, Philadelphia Flyers (6% rostered)
Recently signed after his NCAA season ended, Martone made an immediate impact in his NHL debut with notable ice time and performance. He notched his first point with an assist and brings along a strong scoring record from his college days. As the Flyers strive for a playoff berth, Martone’s offensive skills may prove beneficial for fantasy lineups.
Calum Ritchie, New York Islanders (1% rostered)
Despite battling injuries, Ritchie is now integrating himself into the Islanders’ lineup, showcasing his talents as part of a trade that could shape the team’s future. He’s steadily gained confident participation during games and had a modest record—finding scoring opportunities regularly. He’s certainly a low-risk, potentially high-reward pickup.
Defensemen Focus
Sam Malinski, Colorado Avalanche (28% rostered)
With Cale Makar sidelined, Malinski is seizing the moment as he takes on a vital role as Colorado’s top right-side defender. His output could increase dramatically given Makar’s absence, with Malinski already amassing 37 points so far while contributing solid defensive stats.
Parker Wotherspoon, Pittsburgh Penguins (10% rostered)
After years in the AHL, Wotherspoon is finally making his presence felt in the NHL, having appeared in every game this season. Though he doesn’t generate power-play points, he’s contributed impressively in terms of assists and total hits, complementing high-performing linemate Erik Karlsson.
Charle-Edouard D’Astous, Tampa Bay Lightning (6% rostered)
D’Astous has transitioned well into a more substantial role, tallying impressive stats in a short time. He’s been productive since mid-March, underscoring his growing influence in the lineup while filling the void left by injured star Victor Hedman.
Jordan Spence, Ottawa Senators (6% rostered)
Spence is stepping up in Ottawa after injuries to key players, now functioning as a mainstay on the top power play. With consistently strong performances amidst a thinner defense, he’s seen an increase in playing time, resulting in several points over recent games.
Goalie Spotlight
Jordan Binnington, St. Louis Blues (48% rostered)
Surprisingly, the Blues remain in playoff contention; Binnington’s recent form has been beneficial, reflecting a turnaround after his less favorable early-season performance. He’s shown grit in net, combining with Joel Hofer to keep St. Louis competitive as they eye the postseason.
Yaroslav Askarov, San Jose Sharks (34% rostered)
Despite inconsistencies and a recent injury, Askarov is back in the fold as the Sharks fight for a playoff spot. After a challenging stint, he’s demonstrated resilience and potential as a reliable goaltender, vying to help push San Jose further in the playoff race.
Conclusion
In light of these evaluations, fantasy managers have plenty of options to bolster their squads in the final stretch of the regular season. Now is the time to take a calculated risk on these players to secure a more favorable position for the playoffs.
